NCT Executive Artistic Director Ernie Nolan adapted the piece from Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri’s New York Times bestseller, which reminds us that while dragon taco parties can be great fun, serving spicy salsa can have “fiery” consequences.

Here are three reasons to check out this charming show:

A sweet adaptation meets smart collaboration

Nolan stays true to the lighthearted story while adding his own framing device. This added narrative touches on themes of problem-solving and perseverance, while introducing us to the sassy “Man in Suit” — a purple-sequined dynamo who is eager to share a slew of “mind-blowing, earth-shattering, titillating secrets” about dragons.

But what really sets “Dragons” apart is the fabulous collaboration, which pairs NCT with Nashville Ballet. In fact, Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling has created choreography especially for this project, capturing all of the story’s wit and whimsy. And dancers from Nashville Ballet’s second company are excellent as the titular dragons.

Clever design

Scott Leathers’ scenic/lighting design reflects Salmieri’s colorful illustrations, right down to the local “Taco Cave.” He receives a nice assist from Rachael Silverman, who also has designed some clever props. Colin Peterson’s projections help take the dragon’s “tummy troubles” up a notch, and William Kyle Odum’s sound adds to the fun.

And Patricia Taber’s costumes are picture-perfect, balancing familiar images from the book with a bit of her own magic. I was amazed by how well the dancers were able to move in their dragon costumes, and I especially enjoyed the Yellow Dragon’s cheese wheel tutu.

Sassy performances

Nolan directs a stellar cast, starting with Nashville favorite James Rudolph as the sassy Man in Suit. Whether he’s partying with his dragon friends or channeling his inner Fabio as a telenovela character, Rudolph sells each goofy bit to perfection.

Meanwhile, David Torres-Fuentes makes a solid NCT debut as the young Boy, conveying a world of emotion with little dialogue. And Mik Phil also is terrific as Leroy, the juggling dog. An accomplished circus performer, Phil’s antics are quite engaging. (Jacob Weiss also deserves mention for his contributions as circus skills consultant.)

If you go

What: Nashville Children’s Theatre presents “Dragons Love Tacos”When: Through May 13. Performances are at 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The May 5 performance will be sensory friendly, and an ASL sign-interpreted performance is set for May 6. NCT also hosts its Grand Day Carnival on Sunday, April 22. All-access passes are $40, and include the 2 p.m. performance plus carnival activities and refreshments. Where: 25 Middleton St., NashvilleTickets: $20; $15 for youth/studentsContact:nashvillect.org or 615-252-4675